A YOUTH parliament member for Warwickshire travelled to Westminster to meet a government minister.

James Handy, a 15-year-old Kineton High School pupil, was one of four members of the UK Youth Parliament selected nationally to speak to Hazel Blears, secretary of state for communities and local government, about the role of young people in local politics.

The meeting was a chance to look at how young people could be better represented in local policy-making.

The group discussed a range of government proposals. James asked for the UK Youth Parliament to sit in the House of Commons.

He also discussed a proposal which would make it mandatory for councillors to consult young people before making major decisions.

James said: "I really enjoyed going to Westminster to speak to Hazel Blears about the role of young people in local politics.

"She was eager to talk to us and I have volunteered to continue discussions on a regular basis."

James was accompanied by Shinderpaul Bhangal, deputy youth officer for Warwick-shire County Council, who said: "We are very proud of the contribution our MYPs make, not just locally but nationally, and are delighted that James was able to represent Warwickshire."